Two Arrested For Convenient Robbery

April 3, 2013

Two suspects were arrested on burglary charges and placed in Northern Regional Jail on Thursday following an unarmed robbery at the Convenient Food Mart on Fourth Avenue in Paden City.

The first suspect, Ronald James Morris II, 20, of HC60 Box 157, Reader, was discovered walking along state Route 2 near the store following a 911 call which included a description of the burglar.

According to Paden City Police Department (PCPD) records, the call came in at 6:49 p.m., and Patrolman Jason Utt had the suspect in custody two minutes later. Upon a search, money was found in the suspect's pocket that was believed to be the money stolen from Convenient.

Article Photos

Convenient Food Mart in Paden City

Ronald James Morris II

Paige Gray

Patrolman Utt then called off-duty Patrolman J.D. Kelly for assistance. Shortly thereafter the two located Morris' alleged accomplice, Paige Gray, 20, of 354 Virginia Street, New Martinsville. When they found her, she was driving a vehicle near the crime scene. They believe that she was preparing to pick up her boyfriend.

Surveillance footage revealed that Morris entered the store while it was still open and, on two separate occasions, waited until the cashier was distracted or had walked elsewhere to allegedly steal money from the register. Approximately $250 was reported stolen from the cash register.

Although no threats were made or weapons involved, Paden City Police Chief Mike Kelly believes Morris entered the store with the intent to steal money. For the two separate instances, both Morris and Gray are being charged with two counts of burglary.

"We're continuing the investigation just to get everything taken care of," said Chief Kelly.

Sistersville Police Department and Wetzel County Sheriff's Office also assisted in the matter.